Facts about the Mansard Roofing Style

A mansard roof also referred to as French roof, is a four-sided roof with a double slope on each side meeting to form a low-pitched roof. The lower slope is made so steep almost appearing vertical with dormers. The upper slope has a low pitch, not easily seen from the ground. If you are considering implementing the Mansard Roofing style, here are some facts you should know.

Early useIn the 15th century, between 1598 and 1666, the mansard roofing style was popularized in France, by an architect referred to as François Mansart. The name Mansard was derived from his name. He used the design prominently in his architectural designs, which gave rise to the name “mansard roof”, an adulteration of his name.

Haussmann's renovation of ParisThis was during the architectural movement known as “Second Empire style,” at the beginning of 1850s, the mustard roof became popular once again. The second empire influenced the spread throughout the world. It was adopted for large civic structures such as government administration buildings, hotels, city halls and railway stations. In the United States and Canada, the Second Empire influence spread up to family residences and mansions.

In the 20th CenturyZoning Resolution embraced by New York City, in the year 1916, promoted the use of mansard roofs. In the years between the 1970s and 1980s, commercial builders became interested in modern stylistic elements, they adapted the mansard for new residential housing and also apartment buildings in several areas of the United States. Up to present times, the mansard style has continued to improve.

Usable interior spaceDue to its design, i.e. the lower portion being very steep, sometimes almost vertical and the upper part having a low pitch or nearly flat, it leaves more useful space for storage than can be obtained from any other roof types.

Accommodate flexibilityMansard roofs are good for people who plan to make future home additions. At initial home designs, you can start by having a simple mansard to start off – by doing so you will save money. You can then add on dormers or a garret at a later date. This will add value as well as allow homeowners to easily make additions as their needs change.

High cost of setting upBecause of the detailed design and construction, mansard roofs cost is considerably higher than other typical roofs. The advantage comes in the added space creating more storage, thus covering for the extra initial construction cost.

Materials for designing mansard roofsMetals such as zinc or copper for the steep portion of the roof, can be more expensive upfront, but will require less maintenance making it a good long-term choice. To make the mansard roof stand out, wood or slate shingles can be used. However, avoid using overlapping composition shingles. Asphalt shingles can still be applied on the steeper portion of the roof in a regular pattern.​Mansard roofing typesMansard roofs can take various silhouettes; these can include straight-angle, convex or concave. Windows can be added to provide light for the extra living space provided.